What to do till help arrives

5/5/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage on property can happen from blocked drains, broken pipes, malfunctioning appliances, storms, sewage backups and flood waters. In every scenario, the nature of the damage will dictate the appropriate treatment. But whatever the cause of the water damage, the promise of restoration will depend largely on the speed with which the premises and personal property can be dried. Some emergency restoration services may be carried out by property owners themselves until professional help arrives.

• Remember that water does not have to be contaminated to cause damage but that even clean water can generate mildew, mold and other bacterial growth if neglected. Therefore, it becomes very important to ventilate the wet areas as soon as possible. The safest way of doing this is to open all windows for maximum airflow. This will help remove some of the moisture and circulate air around the premises.
• Shut off the electrical supply to the affected area to prevent the risk of electrical hazards such as getting electrocuted.
• Carefully start removing standing water from flat surfaces by sponging, mopping or blotting. When doing so, it is absolutely crucial to wear protective covering especially if the water is contaminated. This includes rubber gloves, boots as well as face masks.Remove saturated rugs, carpets and other porous materials. In case of clean water, carpets may be saved when cleaned and disinfected professionally but will need to be discarded if water damage is from contaminated water.
• Open drawers and cabinet doors for interior drying without forcing to open any stuck surfaces.
• A useful tip is to freeze important documents and books to retard mildew growth until proper drying can be performed.
• Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northwest to help.